The Blind Poet gives first reading of new children’s book at Francis House Family Fun Day

Dave Steele, The Blind Poet reads The Unstoppable Duo to an audience of families at Francis House.

Dave Steele, an award-winning poet, author and advocate for the visually impaired was a surprise guest at the event in Didsbury.

For two days over a weekend, the grounds of Francis House Children’s Hospice were transformed into a music festival site complete with large tent, food stalls, live bands and performances.

The Sunday Family Fun Day for children aged 13 and under featured a magician, princess and Disney characters, culminating in the reading of Dave’s new children’s book.

The Unstoppable Duo is the second book in the Austin’s Amazing Adventures series. Austin is a young boy slowly going blind and the character of Austin is based on Dave’s own son. In this story, Austin meets a new boy in his class, named Josh who is a wheelchair user.

Dave said: “Francis House means a lot to us as a family and this book pays tribute to my nephew Josh, who sadly passed away from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy just after his 18th birthday.

“Josh used to come here for respite care for many years. To be invited here today and pay tribute to the work Francis House has done for our family and so many other families over the years is a real honour.”

Children and families enjoying the Family Fun Day at Francis House.

Dave also read a poem about Francis House written specifically for the occasion.

A Place Called Francis House

Within these walls where light breaks through,

A softer world is made brand new,

Where tired hearts find space to rest,

And little lives are held, caressed.

Here laughter lingers, tears are shared,

Each story treasured, each soul cared.

A haven built from love’s embrace,

A gentle, healing, sacred space.

When days feel heavy, nights seem long,

Francis House becomes the song

A melody of hope and grace,

That time nor sorrow can erase.

For every child, each mum and dad,

Through moments aching, moments glad,

This house reminds them they’re not alone,

Its warmth becomes a second home.

So let us honour all they give,

The way they help these families live,

With courage, kindness, strength, and cheer

A gift of love that’s always near.

Dave said: “For anyone living with any kind of disability, any kind of challenges in life, to have a community on your doorstep where you can come and be around other people who are going through the same thing and really ‘get it’ is so important.

“It often feels like the world isn’t designed for people like us, we live our lives where things aren’t always accessible. To come to a place where the first thought is accessibility and also support is a massive thing.”

Francis House provides care and support to the families of children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.

Dave added: “My hope is that this book will not only provide much-needed representation for children with disabilities but also serve as a valuable tool for schools and families to teach inclusion and spark conversations around difference, empathy, and strength.”

Rachel continued: “Francis Fest and the Family Fun Day are about lifting some of the weight they carry, even for just a day, and giving children and parents something positive to hold onto. It’s been brilliant to have Dave join us on this special day, sharing his new book and beautiful poem. It is something that we will all remember for a long time.”

The Unstoppable Duo is released on September 19, available in large print and braille version, PenFriend compatible and audio version from www.theblindpoet.net

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